Heat or Ice? Which one do I use?
Clear Lake Chiropractor Comments: When people come into our office in Houston, TX, they want to know what they can do to help themselves get better. They also do not want to do anything that will make their problem worse.
Today we’re revisiting a topic we covered back in 2009, a simple guide to help you decide when to use ice and when to use heat:
Use Ice for Acute Injuries
Ice is typically used within the first 48 hours of an injury to reduce swelling and numb pain. It works by constricting blood vessels, which helps decrease inflammation. Common scenarios for applying ice include:
- Sprains
- Strains
- Bruises
- Acute injuries with noticeable swelling
Apply ice for 20 minutes and off for 40 minutes. Always wrap the ice in a cloth or towel to prevent frostbite.
Use Heat for Chronic Conditions
Heat is beneficial for chronic conditions or injuries that have lingered without significant swelling. It helps relax and loosen tissues and stimulates blood flow to the area. Use heat for conditions such as:
- Muscle soreness
- Stiff joints
- Recurring back pain
- Arthritis
Apply heat for 20 minutes and take it off for at least 40 minutes. Be cautious not to use heat immediately after an acute injury as it can increase inflammation.
An easy way to judge your problem is that if you can touch a specific area and it hurts, it is probably acute. The pain is typically inflammation of a muscle, joint, or nerve. If you can touch a specific area and it hurts, use ice even if it has been more than 2 or 3 days.
When in doubt, always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific injury.
Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston, TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!
